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Azimuth Orchestra (May 1, 2020)

Founded by Janette Corcelius and Ryne Siesky, Azimuth Orchestra is an upcoming virtual orchestra created in response to abrupt isolation due to the coronavirus pandemic. The goal of the ensemble is to enrich the lives of its viewers through virtual concert experiences. The ensemble features musicians from several regions of the United States such as Richmond (VA), Athens (OH), Baltimore (MD), Miami (FL), and Washington D.C., among others. The ensemble is seeking new compositions or new music proposals for a small to medium sized orchestra to be recorded and virtually premiered by the ensemble. Winning composers will receive a virtual/video premiere, a copy of the video premiere, and a mixed/mastered recording. In addition to these awards, accepted proposals will receive a commissioned virtual premiere. Composers of traditionally underrepresented groups are stronglyencouraged to apply!

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

1) Duration: between 1 and 7 minutes.

2) Instrumentation must not exceed: 2 Flutes, 1 Piccolo, 2 Oboes, 1 English Horn, 2 Bb Clarinets, 1 Bass Clarinet, 2 Bassoons, 1 Contrabassoon, 4 Horns, 3 C Trumpets, 2 Trombones, 1 Bass Trombone, 1 Tuba, 2 Percussion, 1 Piano, 1 Harp, Strings. Percussionists only have access to Snare Drum, Marimba, and Auxiliary instruments. Currently, the ensemble does not have access to Timpani, Bass Drum, or Vibraphone. Works including a solo instrument or voice (soprano or alto) are eligible. Works with electronics are eligible if the electronics are nested in an independent app/software or a patch in Max/MSP. Smaller orchestral works or chamber orchestra works are also eligible!

3) All submissions and proposals will undergo a double-blind judging process; therefore, all submissions must be anonymous! Please remove any markings with the composer name, copyright information, dedications, and any electronic properties that identify the composer on the file.

4) In addition to anonymous submissions, all submissions must contain a pseudonym (a fake name). Pseudonyms must appear on the front page of the cover or score (can be done in adobe pdf or in your notation software) and must appear on all attached files (see #7 for more details).

5) Maximum number of submissions/proposals per composer: two. If selected, only one composition will be accepted for performance. Compositions that reach the finals round will be automatically considered for future calls.

6) Recordings are optional, but highly recommended. Live, synthesized, and midi recordings will be accepted (mp3 files only). Reminder: all submitted scores, proposals, and recordings must be anonymous. Please remove the composer name, copyright information, dedications, and any electronic properties that identify the composer on the file.

11) Selected composers are required to have finalized parts sent to azimuthorchestra@gmail.com two weeks after the announcement date. Composers will also be asked to provide program notes (max 200 words), biography (max 200 words), and their website (optional). Selected proposals will have ample time to compose their new composition.

Azimuth Orchestra is always looking for more players, conductors, and A/V engineers! If you, your friends, colleagues, or students would like to join, please fill out the following link: